Kentucky Trains Parents to Help Schools Bolster STEM Subjects

Allison Mefford describes herself as a “recovering lawyer” who makes a living these days as a fitness instructor. But this school year, the parent from western Kentucky is stepping into another role—as an ambassador for math and science education.

Ms. Mefford is one of 32 mothers and fathers from around the state who are taking part in an unusual effort to encourage parents to take a more active role in promoting those topics in their local schools.

They’ve joined the Commonwealth Institute for Parent Leadership , which tries to help adults work with teachers and administrators, and muster support from other parents, to strengthen student achievement in science, technology, engineering, and...